TikTok is introducing new safety and well-being tools aimed at helping families foster healthier digital habits among teenagers.
The latest updates, which enhance the platform’s Family Pairing feature, are part of TikTok’s ongoing efforts to improve online safety by giving parents more oversight while encouraging mindful screen time for young users.
Since launching Family Pairing five years ago, TikTok has continued to refine its safety features based on expert advice and community feedback.
The latest enhancements allow parents to set custom screen-free periods, such as during school hours, bedtime, or family activities.
Teens can request additional screen time, but parents have the final say. Parents will also have access to their child’s follower list, making it easier to monitor online interactions and block unwanted accounts.
A new feature will soon allow teenagers to notify a trusted adult when they report a video for potentially violating TikTok’s rules, even if Family Pairing is not enabled.
Additionally, to encourage teens to log off at night, users under 16 who remain on TikTok after 10 PM will receive full-screen reminders accompanied by calming music, followed by a second, harder-to-dismiss prompt if they continue using the app.
Adam Presser, TikTok’s Head of Operations & Trust and Safety, emphasized the company’s commitment to user well-being.
“At TikTok, safety is at the core of everything we do. These new updates empower families with tools to foster healthy digital habits. By enhancing Family Pairing, strengthening industry partnerships, and introducing innovative well-being features, we ensure that young users can explore, create, and connect in a safe and positive online environment.”
Since its 2023 launch, TikTok’s #SaferTogether initiative has made significant strides in Kenya, equipping communities with tools for responsible online engagement.
Through a partnership with Eveminet Communication Solutions Limited, a youth online protection organization, the initiative has reached over 390,000 students, 6,504 parents, and 5,307 teachers through in-person workshops nationwide.
TikTok is now expanding the initiative to all 42 counties in Kenya by 2025, reinforcing its role as a leader in digital safety education.
The platform is also broadening its Global Youth Council for 2025, nearly doubling its membership to 28 representatives from 15 countries. The council, which includes members from Kenya, provides insights into TikTok’s policies on safety, well-being, and inclusivity.
In a further push for age assurance and digital safety, TikTok is leveraging machine learning to enforce age verification and remove accounts that do not meet platform requirements.
The company is also working with global stakeholders, including Telefónica and the WeProtect Global Alliance, to develop industry-wide best practices for age verification.
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